Puglia is known for its crystal-blue coasts, whitewashed cities with authentic food and wine to cultural traditions. Traveling to southern Italy is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. What do you see first? Can you fit everything in? The good news is that we’ve got your back. Here is the perfect 7-day itinerary of Puglia that will enchant even well-heeled travelers.
DAY 1
ARRIVAL & OSTUNI
Looking for the perfect way to end your first day in Puglia? Upon arrival at Brindisi airport, you’ll be transferred to Ostuni by private vehicle. Continue with a stroll through Ostuni’s stone streets. Try dining in the historic center. After a busy day of exploring, you deserve a good night’s sleep at the 5-star Hotel La Sommità.
There are a lot of great places to eat in Ostuni. Dinner at Osteria Del Tempo Perso or Il Boccone.
DAY 2
OSTUNI – MANDURIA – LECCE
Begin the day with a guided tour of the ancient quarter in the town of Manduria, including its historic synagogue. Transfer by private car to Lecce, the “Florence of the South,” in the afternoon. Head to a local trattoria for dinner in the evening before staying overnight in Lecce.
DAY 3
SANTA MARIA AL BAGNO – GALLIPOLI – NARDÒ – LECCE
Tonight you’ll save time by staying another night in the city center of Lecce. Ready to discover the seaside gems of Gallipoli, Nardò, and Santa Maria al Bagno with a local guide? Don’t forget to ask them about their favorite place to dine.
Read more: 8 Best things to do in Puglia.
DAY 4
LECCE
No visit to Lecce is complete without a guided exploration of Lecce’s rich past, including the remains of the Roman theater. Enjoy a walking tour of the center in the afternoon, including food tastings. Tonight we suggest you choose a new restaurant you haven’t tried yet.
Dinner at Blu Notte or Corte dei Pandolfi
DAY 5
GALATINA – OTRANTO – SANTA CESAREA TERME
Next, after breakfast, transfer to Galatina for a guided exploration of this historic hilltop town. Head to the seaside jewel of Otranto after lunch— famed for its medieval buildings and blue seas. After dinner, stay at the scenic Masseria Montelauro in the countryside near Otranto.
DAY 6
SANTA MARIA DI LEUCA – OTRANTO
The perfect day includes exploring the stunning sea caves near Santa Maria di Leuca by private boat. A charming fishing village in Puglia, Specchia, is the ideal place to spend the afternoon. You’ll have dinner in the countryside near Otranto and spend another night at the Masseria Montelauro.
DAY 7
ALBEROBELLO – MATERA
During your last full day in southern Italy, take a guided trip to Alberobello, where you will see its iconic stone “Trulli” homes. After lunch, a private transfer will take you to Matera. Here you will explore the mountaintop city at sunset. Dinner in an authentic ristorante in Matera and overnight at the luxurious Hotel Sextantio (5*)
DAY 8
DEPARTURE
Private transfer to the Bari airport for your departing flights.
Ready to plan an itinerary of Puglia together? Let’s start planning!